Pet food sales were up 4% in 2010, according to the APPA. Pet supplies and over-the-counter products showed even stronger growth, up nearly 6% in 2010 — a trend that should continue as pets live longer and develop more age-associated problems. Animal obesity also is on the rise, and pet food formulas are targeting health benefits.

“Functional benefits that we’ve seen in human food have made their way to the pet food category,” said Debbie Phillips-Donaldson, editor-in-chief of Petfood Industry. New food products touting such benefits as probiotics and antioxidants, as well as such ingredients as essential fatty acids, glucosamine and even acai, are making their way into the market.

Pet owners also show less resistance to splurge on pet treats. Petfood Industry data indicated that 80% of all dog owners bought treats for their pets. About one-half of dog owners bought up to five packages of treats in 12 months, and 60% have purchased chews in the past 12 months. Among cat owners, nearly 70% bought treats in the past year.

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SPECIAL REPORTS

Are we in the midst of a beauty revolution? Perhaps. It is no secret that the ever-changing beauty category is all about trends, but one could argue that we are embarking on an especially interesting time in beauty as technology is changing the way consumers shop and new innovations strive to break through the noise.

In this beauty report, Drug Store News takes a deeper dive into some of the leading trends that are reshaping beauty.more ...

IN THIS ISSUE

In this issue, DSN examines PricewaterhouseCoopers' "Top Health Industry Issues for 2015;" takes you on a tour of Murad, shares beauty trends and insights and delves into location-based technology and how it is revolutionizing health, retail.Click here to view the issue.